Why Bernie Sanders Should Stay In

Even as it becomes apparent that Hilary Clinton has the Democratic nomination sewn up, there are good reasons that Bernie Sanders should continue his campaign through the convention.

The main messages of Sen. Sanders' campaign, which have generated so much support, should be reflected in the Democratic platform. Addressing campaign finance reform, income inequality, universal health care and a broken tax system has resonated with a large number of primary voters and should be reflected in the general election campaign.

Secondly, the millions of Bernie's supporters (many of them unaffiliated voters) should continue to be engaged. They are a natural fit for a Democratic coalition. This movement must continue through November and beyond.

Bernie has and continues to make Clinton a better candidate. Rather than coast as the presumptive nominee, she has been required to take and articulate positions of importance.

Finally, as many as 40 percent of voters in many of the swing states are unaffiliated. They must look with horror at the crass, uncouth tenor of the Republican nomination battle. In contrast, Sanders and Clinton must continue to discuss the issues in a civil and dignified manner.